The Home Inspection and You

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical
structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. Having
a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If problems or
symptoms are found, the home inspector may recommend further evaluation.

What does it include?

The standard home inspectors report will review the condition of a home’s
heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting)
interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible
insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors; the foundation,
basement, and visible structure.

Why do I need a home inspection?

The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you'll
ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the condition of the
property and the need for any major repairs before you buy, so you can
minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards.

Of course, a home inspection also points out the positive aspects of
a home, as well as the maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in
good shape. After the inspection, you'll have a much clearer understanding
of the house you are about to purchase.

If you are already a homeowner, a home inspection may be used to identify
problems in the making and to learn preventive measures which might avoid
costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell your home, you may wish
to have an inspection prior to placing the home on the market. This will
give you a better understanding of conditions which may be discovered by
the buyer’s inspector, and an opportunity to make repairs that will put
the house in better selling condition.

What will cost?

The inspection fee for typical of one family house varies geographically,
as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection
fee may vary depending upon the size of the house, particular features
of the house, its age, and possibly additional services, such as septic,
well, or radon testing. It is a good idea to check the local prices on
your own.

However, do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether not to have
a home inspection, or in the selection of your home inspector. The knowledge
gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest- priced
inspector is not necessarily a bargain. The inspector’s qualifications,
including experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be
the most important consideration.

Can't I do it myself?

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise
of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands,
of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements
of construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. He or she
understands how the home systems and components are intended to function
together, as well as how and why they fail.

Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective
and unemotional about house they really want, and this may affect their
judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial
third party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.

Can a house fail inspection?

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current conditions
of your perspective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines a market
value, or a municipal inspection, which it verifies local code compliance.
A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather
describe its physical condition and indicate what may need major repair
or replacement.

How do I find a home inspector?

The best sources are friends, or perhaps business acquaintances, which
have been satisfied with and can recommend home inspectors they have used.
In addition, the names of local inspectors can be found in the Yellow Pages
were many advertised under the " Building Inspection Service" or "Home
Inspection Service". Real estate agents are also generally familiar
with the service, and should be able to provide you with a list of names
from which to choose.

Whatever your referral source, you want to make sure that that the home
inspector is a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
in order to be assured of his or her professional qualifications, experience,
and business ethics. A list of ASHI Members in your area is available upon
request from the Association’s headquarters.

What is the American Society of Home Inspectors?

The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is the oldest and leading
nonprofit professional organization for independent home inspectors. Since
its formation and 1976, ASHI's " Standards of Practice" has served
as the home inspector’s performance guideline, universally recognized and
accepted by professional and government authorities alike. Copies of the
Standards are available free from ASHI.

ASHI Members subscribe to a professional Code of Ethics that prohibits
them from engaging in conflict of interest activities which might compromise
their objectivity. This is the consumer’s assurance that the inspector
will not, for example, use the inspection to solicit repair work.

In order to assist home inspectors in furthering their education, ASHI
sponsors a number of technical seminars and workshops throughout the year,
often in cooperation with one of its nearly 50 chapters. ASHI also serves
as a public interest group by providing accurate and helpful consumer information
to home buyers on home purchasing and home maintenance.

Who belongs to ASHI?

Members of ASHI are independent professional home inspectors have met
the most rigorous technical and experience requirements in effect today.
To become an ASHI Member, an inspector must pass two written technical
exams, have performed a minimum of two hundred fifty professional fee paid
home inspections, and maintained his or her candidate status for no less
than six months. ASHI Members are required to follow the Society's Code
of Ethics, and to obtain continuing education credits in order to keep
current with the latest in building technology, materials, and professional
skills.

When do I call in the Home Inspector?.

A home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase
agreement has been signed, and is often available within a few days. However,
before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the sales
contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent upon the findings
of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms
to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

Do I have to be there?

It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it
is recommended. You'll be able to observe the inspector and ask questions
directly, as you learn about the condition of the home, how its systems
work, and how to maintain it. You will also find a written report easier
to understand if you've seen the property firsthand through the inspector’s
eyes.

What if the report reveals problems?

No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't
necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in
advance what to expect. A seller may adjust the purchase price or make
repairs if major problems are found. If your budget is tight, or if you
don't wish to become involved in future repair work, this information will
be extremely important to you.

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with your eyes open
as to the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems.
You will also have learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s
report, and will want to keep that information for future reference.